Family characteristics, responses, and dynamics associated with sibling sexual abuse: A scoping review

Sibling sexual abuse (SSA) is influenced by and occurs within an interconnected family system, because of this there is a growing move towards recognising SSA as a family issue. Families also play a vital role in the disclosure of SSA and in the aftermath of recovery. Nevertheless, a descriptive review consolidating the known family dynamics, characteristics, and responses associated with SSA is absent from research.

A scoping review was conducted to synthesise known family characteristics and dynamics associated with SSA. The review also sought to explore how families respond following the disclosure/discovery of SSA.

Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) five-part scoping review framework was used. Web of Science, PsycInfo, ProQuest, Google Scholar and specialist journals were searched for empirical research and results were assessed for eligibility, leaving 28 studies in the final review.

SSA was related to: (1) family demographics, (2) a history of abuse and neglect within the family, and (3) household stressors and environmental factors. The review also found that families largely respond using strategies of minimisation.

Research and practice need to ensure that SSA is understood within the context of family dynamics and histories, in a way that may not be necessary when understanding other 'types' of child sexual abuse (CSA). Consideration must be given to the fact that children affected by SSA can be situated in families where, as well as SSA, there is a history of abuse and neglect within the family, and various environmental stressors are present.